In one of the first hearings of the post-resurrected, post-ascended, Spirit-filled gospel message was the declaration that There is salvation in no one else, for this is not other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). This points to the exclusivity of the gospel, a message that Christ tells sharply in Matthew 10.

With shocking rhetoric, Jesus says, Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace but a sword…. How does Jesus’ message of peace and joy come from such a pointed declaration about absolute and sure division? The reality of Jesus coming, and the intricate and extravagant fashion of his coming, points to the fact that there can only be one way of salvation for all mankind. For this reason, Jesus is the ultimate dividing point of all mankind.

One year before my great grandmother was born, the RMS Titanic sank into the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Before the ship left port, the cabins were loaded by class. The first class enjoyed the fine amenities while those in the lower classes enjoyed the ride across the sea in the dingy lowest parts of the ship. After the fateful incident when the ship struck the iceberg killing thousands, there was a board posted with all the names. This time, instead of classes, the names were arranged under the headings – “saved” and “lost”.

Jesus’ coming has divided history, and his coming will be the great divider of all mankind. The question remains for every man, what will you do with Jesus? Believe and be saved, deny and remain in your sins. The peace that Jesus brings is a peace that comes from those who follow him. He is our peace. Won’t you follow Him today?